Mathematics (MSc)
About the programme
The master’s programme offers two research-oriented specialisations where you can focus on Algebra, Geometry and Number Theory or Applied Mathematics. You can also combine Mathematics with education, management or science communication.
Programme overview Mathematics
The MSc Mathematics programme offers five specialisations:
- Algebra, Geometry and Number Theory: follow this two year research programme to become a specialist in one of the areas within pure mathematics
- Applied Mathematics: focus on mathematics as it is applied in various aspects of physics and the life sciences.
- Mathematics and Education (taught partly in Dutch): prepare yourself for a career in teaching mathematics.
- Mathematics and Science Communication and Society: combine research with programmes in different aspects of science communication, such as journalism.
- Mathematics and Business Studies: combine training in Mathematics with an education in business and entrepreneurship.
Each specialisation may consist of master courses offered by Leiden University, courses offered by the Dutch master programme in mathematics ('Mastermath'), and courses offered by other institutions, for example the Technical University of Delft.
The research specialisation comprises a choice of advanced courses of a total of at least 120 EC. This includes a research project (at least 40 EC) in the second year, and a free choice of courses from any field (maximum 20 EC). The programme can to a great extent be tailor-made.
Find out more about the Research-oriented specialisations:
If you choose one the education, science communication or science based business specialisations, you need to follow specific modules (30-60 EC) and therefore have a reduced research programme which consists of compulsory mathematical components (54 EC) and electives (6-36 EC). The compulsory mathematical components in these specialisations comprise a research training project (30 EC) and four core courses to be selected from the core mathematics MSc courses (24 EC).
Find out more about the programme outline of the specialisations:
Educational methods
- Computer assignments
- Lectures
- Individual papers
- Literature study
- Presentations
- Research project
- Seminars
- Self-study
- Working group
Study guidance
The mathematics study advisor is available for questions and suggestions regarding your study programme. During your final research project you will receive personal guidance from a personal supervisor, who will monitor you very closely.